Biosorption of Cu and Zn in a Batch System via Dried Macroalgae Halimeda opuntia and Turbinaria turbinata

Abstract

Biosorption is the most favourable technique for the treatment of heavy metals as it is fast, powerful, and low cost, it takes place in a wide range of temperatures as well as it can be used for almost all types of heavy metals. In this study, the biosorption technique adsorbs Cu²⁺ and Zn²⁺ on the dried macroalgae (Halimeda opuntia and Turbinaria turbinata) in a batch system. Experimental parameters affecting the biosorption process are initial metal ion concentrations (5, 10, 15 and 25 mg/L), pH between (4.5 and 5.2), biomass dosage (1 gm) and agitation speed 150 rpm applied at contact time (30, 60 and 120 min). The significant-high average removals of Cu²⁺ by H.opuntia (> 96%) were recorded in concentrations of 10, 15 and 25 ppm at 120 min and the highest average removals by T.turbinata (81.07%, 78.32% and 74.7%) were recorded in concentrations of 5, 10 and 15 ppm at 120 min. The lowest average removal of Cu²⁺ 89.22% was recorded by H.opuntia and 49.9% was recorded by T.turbinata in a concentration of 25 ppm at 30 min. In the same way, significant-high average removals (>94%) were recorded in a concentration of 10 ppm at 120 min for H.opuntia and in a concentration of 5 ppm by at 60 min for T.turbinata. In conclusion, the dead biomass of marine algae can provide a promising and low-cost technique for removing heavy metal pollutants in medical industries.